Understanding the IRS Audit Process for Child-Related Tax Credits
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) conducts audits to ensure that taxpayers are accurately reporting their income and deductions. This includes verifying the eligibility of claimed dependents, such as children, for tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit (CTC).
Reasons for an IRS Audit Related to Child Claims
There are several reasons why the IRS may select a tax return for audit, including:
-
Discrepancies in Child Information: Inconsistent or incomplete information about the child’s relationship to the taxpayer, such as conflicting birth dates or names.
-
Multiple Claims for the Same Child: When two or more taxpayers claim the same child as a dependent, the IRS investigates to determine the rightful claimant.
-
Suspected Fraud: The IRS may suspect fraudulent activity if there are red flags, such as claiming a child who does not reside with the taxpayer or providing false documents.
Responding to an IRS Audit for Child-Related Tax Credits
If you receive an IRS audit notice regarding your child-related tax credits, it’s crucial to respond promptly and provide the requested documentation. Failure to respond can result in the disallowance of the credits and potential penalties.
Required Documentation for Proof of Relationship
To establish your relationship to the child you are claiming, the IRS typically requires copies of the following documents:
-
Birth Certificate: This document proves the child’s identity and establishes the relationship between the child and the taxpayer.
-
Adoption Papers: If the child was adopted, legal adoption papers are necessary to demonstrate the legal parent-child relationship.
-
Paternity Test Results: In cases where the child’s father is not listed on the birth certificate, a paternity test may be required.
-
Marriage Certificate: If the child is the taxpayer’s stepchild, a marriage certificate is needed to prove the relationship between the taxpayer and the child’s parent.
Required Documentation for Proof of Residency
To prove that the child resided with you for more than half the year, the IRS may request the following documents:
-
School Records: Official school records, such as transcripts or report cards, should include the child’s name, address, and dates of attendance.
-
Medical Records: Medical records from healthcare providers can indicate the child’s address and dates of appointments.
-
Social Service Records: Letters from social service agencies or placement officials can provide evidence of the child’s residency.
-
Letters from Third Parties: Letters from landlords, utility companies, or other individuals who can attest to the child’s residency can be accepted.
Tips for Responding to an IRS Audit
-
Gather the necessary documentation promptly.
-
Respond to the IRS within the specified timeframe.
-
Be organized and provide clear copies of all requested documents.
-
If you have any questions or need assistance, contact the IRS or seek professional tax advice.
Consequences of Failing to Prove Eligibility
If the IRS determines that you are not eligible for the claimed child-related tax credits, you may face the following consequences:
-
Disallowance of the Credits: The IRS will remove the credits from your tax return, potentially resulting in a tax liability.
-
Repayment of Refund: If you received a refund based on the disallowed credits, you may be required to repay the amount.
-
Penalties and Interest: Failure to provide adequate documentation or cooperate with the audit process can lead to penalties and interest charges.
Claiming child-related tax credits can provide significant financial benefits, but it’s essential to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements and can provide the necessary documentation to support your claim. If you receive an IRS audit notice, respond promptly and provide the requested information to avoid potential penalties and ensure the accuracy of your tax return.
Former IRS Agent Explains the Number One Reason You Get Audited, Its Your Audit DIF Score.
Can a tax audit be triggered if multiple people claim the same child?
Otherwise, an audit may be triggered if multiple people try to claim the same child as a dependent on their returns. Audit statistics: Black taxpayers are audited at least three times more than non-Black taxpayers, study finds 2023 tax season guide for new parents: What to know about the Child Tax Credit, EITC and more
How do I file a dependent audit?
The IRS provides a list of acceptable supporting documents in IRS Form 886-H-DEP . Most dependent audit procedures will take place through the mail. The IRS will send you a request for information, and you can respond by sending in copies of your supporting documentation.
Can two taxpayers claim a dependent if a child has been claimed?
If both two taxpayers e.g. mother and grandmother of a qualified child claim a dependent usually the taxpayer with the higher AGI will be able to claim the child or dependent. Follow these application instructions to claim a dependent who has already been claimed by another taxpayer so the IRS can review if the tie-breaker rule applies.
What if my child was claimed on another tax return?
You may receive a letter ( CP87A) from the IRS, stating that your child was claimed on another return. It will tell you that if you made a mistake, to file an amended tax return, and if you didn’t make a mistake, do nothing. The other person who claimed the dependent will get the same letter.